RECIFE, Brazil: Italy goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon and center back Andrea Barzagli remain in doubt for Friday's World Cup match against Costa Rica.
Buffon twisted his left ankle and knee before the Azzurri's opening game against England and watched from the bench as Salvatore Sirigu filled in admirably for him in a 2-1 win.
Coach Cesare Prandelli says Buffon "has had three great days of training but the ankle is still slightly swollen. If he feels good after today's training he'll play."
Barzagli was held out of training Wednesday due to a tendinitis problem that bothered him all season with Juventus.
Prandelli says "Barzagli is better but we'll evaluate him tomorrow morning."
If Barzagli can't play, Leonardo Bonucci could take over in defense alongside Giorgio Chiellini.
